Clinical care managers Sally and Asmita are part of the team supporting residents and families at HammondCare Caulfield. They both grew up in cultures that share the same tradition of caring for older relatives at home.
Sally shares, ‘There are no nursing homes in Kenya, where I grew up.’ Asmita, who’s from Nepal, says it’s the same there too.
As registered nurses with additional clinical training, their role helps oversee a resident’s clinical care. This can include medication support, pain management and wound care, as well as working closely with doctors and other clinicians to make sure each resident receives the right care for them.
For Sally, Asmita and their wider team, it all starts with getting to know the person
‘In my culture, we are taught to value and respect older people,’ says Sally. ‘I love supporting residents in the best way I can, to be part of their care journey. They have so much experience and wisdom to share.’
Asmita agrees: ‘I feel a deep connection to older people, having grown up around them. It’s about forming a special bond and taking time to understand each person.’
They also emphasise that family and friends are an integral part of the care team.
‘Loved ones know their family member better than anyone,’ says Sally. ‘That’s why it’s important they are part of the team too. We want them to tell us about their life story, history, likes and dislikes. And of course if they notice any changes while visiting, we want to know about that as well.
‘By sharing information with us, they are helping us personalise care and enrich their daily life.’
Asmita adds: ‘We’re here to support family members as well as residents. It’s a two-way street – we want the best outcomes just as much as the people who already know them, who have travelled alongside them on their life’s journey.’